INSTRUCTION MANUAL
HEAVY-DUTY PIPE GRAB
MODEL PG (CAST IRON & STEEL)
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW
MODEL NO. ________________________
SERIAL NO. ________________________
VESTIL MANUFACTURING CORP.
2999 NORTH WAYNE STREET, P.O. BOX 507, ANGOLA, IN 46703
TELEPHONE: (260) 665-7586 -OR- TOLL FREE (800) 348-0868
FAX: (260) 665-1339
URL: WWW.VESTILMFG.COM EMAIL: SALES@VESTIL.COM
We produce several models of heavy duty pipe grab so that our customers may select a
product that satisfies specific requirements. The products identified on the front page
conform to the generalized specifications disclosed in this manual. Each model fulfills our
demanding standards for quality, safety and durability.
SAFETY PRINCIPLES
Vestil Manufacturing Corp. recognizes the critical importance of workplace safety. Each
person who might participate in the assembly, use, operation, or maintenance of the
product must read this manual. Read the entire manual and fully understand the
directions BEFORE assembling, using or maintaining the pipe grab. If you do not
understand an instruction, contact Vestil for clarification. Failure to adhere to the
directions in this manual may result in serious personal injury or even death.
Vestil is not liable for any injury or property damage that occurs as a consequence of
failing to apply the safe operation and maintenance procedures explained in this manual or
that appear on labels attached to the product. Failure to exercise good judgment and
common sense may result in property damage, serious personal injury, or death, and are
not the responsibility of Vestil.
This manual applies the hazard identification methods suggested for instruction manuals
by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) in ANSI standard Z535.6-2006. In
accordance with ANSI guidelines for hazard warning language, this manual identifies
personal injury risks and situations that could lead to property damage with SIGNAL
WORDS. These signal words announce an associated safety message. The reader must
understand that the signal word chosen to identify a particular safety hazard categorizes the
seriousness of that hazard according to the following convention:
Identifies a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, WILL
result in DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY. Use of
this signal word is limited to the most extreme situations.
These symbols
identify hazards
that may result in
personal injury
Identifies a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, COULD result in DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, COULD result in MINOR or MODERATE injury.
Although Z535.6-2006 approves the use of “CAUTION” without an
accompanying safety alert symbol (black equilateral triangle with
yellow exclamation point) as an alternative to “NOTICE”, this
manual differentiates between hazards that pose a risk of
personal injury and those that create mere property damage
situations. CAUTION appears exclusively in conjunction with
the safety alert symbol to identify injury risks.
Identifies practices not related to personal injury,
such as operation that could damage the pipe grab. No safety
alert symbol (equilateral triangle enclosing an exclamation point)
accompanies this signal word.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety Principles 2
Product Introduction 4
Safety Guidelines 5
Use Instructions 11-13
Inspections & Maintenance 13-14
Markings 15
TABLE OF FIGURES
FIG. 1: Labeled Photograph 6
FIG. 2: Exploded Parts Diagram for PG-C/S-045 & PG-C/S-060 7
FIG. 3: Exploded Parts View for Models PG-C-100, PG-S-100 8
FIG. 4: Exploded Parts View for Models PG-C-140 and PG-S-140 9
FIG. 5: Exploded Parts View for Models PG-C-200 and PG-S-200 10
FIG. 3: Product Label Placement 15
PRODUCT INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a Heavy Duty Pipe Grab (“pipe
grab” or simply “grab”) made by Vestil Manufacturing
Corporation (“Vestil”). Each pipe grab is a durable, high-quality
product that combines safety features and superior lifting
capabilities. Despite ease of use, all personnel must familiarize
themselves with the safe operation instructions provided in this
manual.
We produce 2 main types of heavy duty pipe grab, the PG-C and PG-S.
PG-C’s are constructed of cast iron; PG-S’s are made of steel. Additionally, we
offer several models of cast iron and steel grabs, which are distinguishable by
lifting capacity. Lifting capacity varies from 450lbs. to 2,000lbs. All models
incorporate 2 pipe guide weldments that engage the top of the pipe load. These
arms provide greater control of the load and the ability to easily release the load.
Vestil Manufacturing Corp. created this manual to acquaint owners and
users of our pipe grabs with safe use and maintenance procedures. Employers
are responsible for instructing employees to use the product properly.
Employees and any other persons, who might foreseeably use, install or
perform maintenance on the pipe grab, must read and understand every
instruction before using the pipe grab. Persons who use the pipe grab
should have access to the manual at all times, and in particular should
consult the directions before each use. Contact Vestil for answers to any
question you have after reading the manual.
Although Vestil strives to identify hazardous situations that could arise
during the use of its products, this manual cannot address every conceivable
danger. The end-user is responsible for exercising sound judgment at all times.
- 4 -
SAFETY GUIDELINES
Read the entire manual before attaching the pipe grab to a lifting device or using it for the first
time. Refer to the manual for safe use and maintenance procedures (p. 11-14). If questions
remain after you finish reading the manual, contact Vestil for answers. DO NOT attempt to resolve
any problems with the pipe grab unless you are certain that it will be safe to use afterwards.
NEVER modify the product in any way without the express written approval of Vestil.
• Electrocution Risk: DO NOT contact live electrical wires with the pipe grab or the load!
• Review the safety messages included in the manual(s) for the crane, trolley, hoist, and any other
device used in conjunction with the pipe grab.
• To open the grab, lift one or both of the pipe guide weldments. DO NOT open the grab while using it
to lift and/or move material.
• ALWAYS inspect the pipe grab before each use according to the inspection procedures described in
ASME B30.20. B30.20 also recommends “frequent” and “periodic” inspections.
• Properly maintain the pipe grab according to the maintenance procedures on p. 14. These
procedures were developed to supplement suggested maintenance practices of B30.20.
• ONLY attach the pipe grab to a safety hook (e.g. a hoist that has a safety hook connected to the end
of the chain or rope) or to a connection that includes safety features to prevent accidental/unintended
detachment from the hoist. DO NOT use the pipe grab on a hook that might release the grab. DO
NOT connect the grab to a safety hook that does not function properly or that is damaged.
• DO NOT grab a load that has any debris or surface contamination on it that might affect the quality of
the connection between the grab and the load. Remove all debris, such as oil, grease, dirt, or water.
• Clear all debris, including fluids, from the path of travel (if the job requires moving the load to a new
location) BEFORE picking up material. If moisture is present in the path of travel, absorb it before
using the grab to reposition the load. Make sure that no person is in the travel path.
• DO NOT remove or obscure any label. Verify the placement and legibility all labels as shown in FIG.
6 on p. 15. If any label becomes damaged or unreadable, contact Vestil for a replacement. DO NOT
use the grab UNLESS all labels are attached and readable.
• DO NOT attempt an unbalanced lift. Always use enough grabs to balance the load before lifting
and/or moving the load.
• DO NOT sit on or apply any weight/pressure to a load grasped by the pipe grab.
• DO NOT attempt to lift material that exceeds the load rating. ALWAYS make sure that the material
weighs no more than the rated load of the pipe grab.
• DO NOT lift a load higher than necessary. (See “Use Instructions” on p. 11-13).
• Stay clear of the suspended load. DO NOT raise the load over your feet or any other part of your
body. DO NOT use the pipe grab to lift material over people!
• DO NOT lift any apparatus that is used to support people, such as a work platform.
• Always orient yourself so that the load is visible to you. You are less likely to be injured by the load if
it remains within sight at all times. Standing to one side of the load next to the pipe grab will allow
you to stabilize the load as you move it to the desired location.
• DO NOT leave a suspended load unattended. An unattended, suspended load creates a risk of injury
to yourself and others. Always move a load to its desired location, set the material down and properly
immobilize it, and then disengage the grab from the load. Disconnect the grab from the hoist
BEFORE you leave the work area.
- 5 -
FIG. 1: Labeled photographs (front and side views)
Formed
Hook
Bracket
Upper
frame
pin
Pipe Guide
Weldment
Lower
frame
pin
Load-engaging
portion of pipe
guide weldment
Lever
Arm
Frame
- 6 -
FIG. 2: Exploded Parts View for Models PG-C-045, PG-C-060,
PG-S-045, PG-S-060
Item No. Part No. Description Quantity
1
28-014-196
28-014-199
Lever Arm (Frame)
3
2 28-014-197 Top Link (Frame) 3
3 28-016-090 Formed Hook Bracket 1
4 25-516-043 Pipe Guide Weldment 2
5 28-014-198 Link Arm (Frame) 4
6 26351
Socket Head Shoulder Bolt,1/2 x 1-1/4
with ¼ Hex, 3/8-16UNC Threads
2
7 37024 3/8 Nylock Insert Nut 8
8 33008 3/8 USS Flat Washer Z Plated 6
9 28-112-024 Lower Frame Pin 1
10 28-112-025 Upper Frame Pin 1
11 11109 3/8-16x1-1/2 Z Plated 6
12 33012 ½ Z-plated Flat Washer 2
13 33434 7/8 x 18Ga. Machine Bushing 2
14 68017 External Snap Ring, 7/8 Shaft 2
- 7 -
FIG. 3: Exploded Parts View for Models PG-C-100, PG-S-100
Item No. Part No. Description Quantity
1 28-514-168 Lever Arm Weldment with Stop Block 1
2 28-014-199 Lever Arm (Frame) 2
3 28-014-200 Top Link (Frame) 3
4 28-016-090 Formed Hook Bracket 1
5 28-516-044 Outrigger Arm Weldment 2
6 28-014-201 Link Arm (Frame) 4
7 26351 Socket Head Shoulder Bolt, 1/2x1-1/4
with ¼ Hex, 3/8-16 UNC Threads
2
8 11109 3/8-16x1-1/2 Z-plated Bolt 6
9 37024 3/8 Nylock Insert Lock Nut 8
10 33008 3/8 USS Z-plated Flat Washer 2
11 28-112-024 Lower Frame Pin 1
12 28-112-025 Upper Frame Pin 1
13 33012 ½ Z-plated USS Flat Washer 2
14 33434 7/8I.D.x18GA. Machine Bushing 2
15 68017 External Snap Ring,7/8 Shaft 2
- 8 -
FIG. 4: Exploded Parts View for Models PG-C-140 and PG-S-140
Item No. Part No. Description Quantity
1 28-514-168 Lever Arm Weldment with Stop Block
2 28-014-199 Lever Arm (Frame) 2
3 28-014-200 Top Link (Frame) 3
4 28-016-090 Formed Hook Bracket 1
5 28-516-044 Outrigger Arm Weldment 2
6 28-014-201 Link Arm (Frame) 4
7 26351 Socket Head Shoulder Bolt, ½ x 1-1/4 with
¼
Hex. 3/8 – 16 UNC Threads
2
8 11109 3/8 – 16 x 1-1/2 Z-plated HHCS #2 6
9 37024 3/8 Nylock Insert Nut 8
10 33008 3/8 Z-plated USS Flat Washer 2
11 28-112-024 Lower Frame Pin 1
12 28-112-025 Upper Frame Pin 1
13 33012 ½ Z-plated USS Flat Washer 2
14 33434 7/8 I.D. x18GA. 2
15 68017 External Shaft Ring, 7/8 shaft 2
- 9 -
FIG. 5: Exploded Parts View for Models PG-C-200 and PG-S-200
Item No. Part No. Description Quantity
1 28-014-205 Lever Arm (Frame) 3
2 28-112-022 Lower Frame Pin 1
3 28-016-096 Arm Link Bracket 4
4 28-014-206 Top Link (Frame) 3
5 28-112-023 Upper Frame Pin 1
6 28-016-097 Formed Hook Bracket 1
7 28-514-045 Pipe Guide Weldment 2
8 28-516-046 Outrigger Link Weldment 2
9 33016 5/8 USS Flat Washer Z-plated 4
10 26372 Socket Head Shoulder Bolt, 5/8x1-3/4
with 5/16 Hex, ½ -13 UNC Threads
2
11 33012 ½ Z-plated USS Flat Washer 2
12 37030 ½-13 Nylock Insert Lock Nut 2
13 26351 Socket Head Shoulder Bolt 1/2x1-1/4
with ¼ Hex, 3/8-16 UNC Threads
6
14 37024 3/8 Nylon Insert Lock Nut 6
- 10 -
Use Instructions:
The operating instructions in this manual are meant to supplement the operating
recommendations of ASME standard B30.20.
Only trained, designated persons should use the Pipe grab. “Designated person” means someone
selected by his or her employer, or by a representative of the employer, as competent to use the pipe
grab. Trainees under the direct supervision of a designated person may use the device. Maintenance
personnel and persons who perform tests also may use the pipe grab when necessary for the
performance of their employment duties. BEFORE you connect the grab to a hoisting device,
perform a proper “Every Lift” inspection as described in the most recent revision of ASME B30.20.
Proceed to step 1 ONLY IF the pipe grab passes the inspection and is deemed safe to use
by
designated inspection personnel.
Step 1: Connect the Pipe Grab to the hoisting device that will be used. The pipe grab must be connected
to the hoist via a safety hook to prevent accidental detachment.
Safety Hook
Properly functioning safety latch
Step 2: Test the pipe grab for normal function. Lift each of the pipe guide weldments to verify that the
grab opens and closes smoothly.
2
1
Step 3: Move the pipe grab into position above the load.
Step 4: Grasp the object. Lift one of the pipe guide weldments to open the grab (photo 5), and while
open, lower the grab around the object (photo 6). Lower the pipe guide weldment until the load-engaging
portions of both arms (identified in FIG. 1) contact the top of the load material (circled in photo 7).
5
6
- 11 -
Step 5: Make sure that the load is balanced. Lift the load just a few inches off of the ground or supporting
surface to see if it remains horizontal. If the load hangs lower on one side of the grab, lower the load until
it fully rests on the ground/supporting surface and immobilize it. Release the load by lifting one of the
pipe guide weldments. Move the grab slightly towards the end of the load that hung lower. Raise the
object again just a few inches into the air to check the balance of the load. Once the load is properly
balanced, proceed to step 6. (“Properly balanced” means that the load remains level when suspended by
the grab). If you cannot balance the load with a single grab, use one or more additional grabs as
necessary to balance the material.
Step 6: Raise the load and move it to the desired location. Grasp the hoist hook as shown in photo 8,
and raise the load to waist height.
Review all hazard safety messages (p.5) and always follow these rules when using the pipe
grab:
1. NEVER lift material over yourself or other persons. Inform everyone in the area that you will use the grab
and make sure that no one is in or around the starting point, path of travel, or end point.
2. DO NOT press down on the object. Grasp the hoist hook to stabilize the load while elevated and/or
traveling to a new location.
3. Always stand at arm’s length to the side of the load and hold onto the hoist hook as shown in photos 8-
10. Make sure that your clothing, feet, and all other body parts stay out from underneath the load. This
stance allows the operator to exercise some control of the load while maximizing safety.
4. If the object has to be removed from a container or be lifted over an obstacle, continue gripping the hoist
hook. You MUST use a different device if you will not be able to maintain the safe stance described
in Rule 3.
If you are using a motorized trolley:
• DO NOT push or pull either the tongs or the die. Allow the trolley to supply all movement. Your hold
on the hook is a means ONLY for stabilizing the load.
If you are using a manual trolley:
• Grasp the hoist hook with one hand. DO NOT push/pull the load in the direction of travel. Use the
hand that grasps the hoist hook to move the trolley in the intended direction.
7
8
9
- 12 -
Step 7: Lower the load to the ground/supporting surface (photos 11 and 12). Position the object above
the surface that will receive it (ground, pallet, work platform, etc.). Make sure that the load is not swinging
or rotating before beginning to lower it.
11 12
Step 8
: Once the load has been fully lowered, immobilize it. Disengage the pipe grab by lifting one or both of
the pipe guide weldments. Raise the grab so that it is completely free of the load.
13
14
15
16
Maintenance and Inspections:
A designated person must verify that the device complies with all regulations, codes, and standards that
apply to “Under-the-Hook Lifting Devices” in the location where the pipe grab is used. The person
designated to conduct inspections must do so before
the pipe grab is used for the first time, and EACH
time the grab is installed for use.
Inspections:
The end-user is responsible for performing inspections as recommended in ASME B30.20,
which categorizes examinations based on regularity of performance. Highlights of the recommended
inspection procedures appear below. However, the full procedures as explained in the published
standard must be used.
DO NOT use a pipe grab that is structurally damaged. Such damage might include bent
jaws, deformation of the clevis or support pin(s), or damaged pipe guide weldments. Restore the grab to
normal operating condition BEFORE using it again.
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Inspections Before & During EVERY lift: visual examination must be performed by the operator prior to
AND during each lift. In particular, the operator should inspect for:
1. Debris on the load surfaces; AND
2. Condition and operation of the controls.
Frequent Inspections
: the specific meaning of “frequent” varies from daily to monthly depending on the
service classification (normal, heavy, severe, and special/infrequent) of the pipe grab. Definitions of the
service classifications appear in ASME B30.20. The operator or other designated person(s) should
visually inspect the pipe grab for:
1. Deformation, cracking, or excessive wear of any part of the pipe grab;
2. Operating mechanisms for conditions that interfere with proper function; AND/OR
3. Loose or missing fasteners, stops or nameplates.
Periodic Inspections
: complete visual inspections performed AND recorded by a qualified person. The
inspection should specifically look for:
1. Loose bolts or fasteners;
2. Excessive wear of friction pads, linkages, and other mechanical parts; AND/OR
3. Excessive wear at the points where the grab connects to the hoist hook, and load support
clevises or pins.
Maintenance: the end-user must implement a maintenance program to ensure the proper function and
safety of the pipe grab. A qualified person may establish a program that is used in preference to the
maintenance procedures described below. However, if you apply the procedure below, complete EVERY
step each time
maintenance is performed.
ONLY qualified persons may perform maintenance on the pipe grab. A qualified person
is someone “who, by possession of a recognized degree in an applicable field or certificate of
professional training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve
problems relating to the subject matter and work.” See ASME B30.20-0.2-2003.
Step 1
: All sources of power must be disconnected, locked out and tagged, “Out of Service.”
Step 2
: Disconnect the pipe grab from the hoist hook, and tag it as, “Out of Service.”
Step 3
: Perform all adjustments identified as necessary during any inspection (every lift, frequent, or
periodic). Refer to ASME B30.20 for recommended inspection procedures.
Step 4
: If the inspection identified conditions which require new parts to repair, contact Vestil to order
replacement parts. Deformity, corrosion, rusting, or excessive wear of fasteners, jaws, pipe guide
weldments, or the clevis warrants immediate replacement of the affected part(s).
The reader should understand the significant difference between “Adjustments [and]
repairs,” and modifications. An adjustment or repair is a simple correction that restores the grab to
normal operating condition, such as tightening loose fasteners, or removing debris from the surface of the
grab. A modification is a change that alters the grab from normal operating condition, like bending the
structural members or removing the pipe guide weldments. NEVER modify the pipe grab without the
express, written approval of Vestil. Modifications may render the pipe grab unsafe to use.
DO NOT use the pipe grab if adjustments and/or repairs are incomplete! Return the grab to service
ONLY after finishing all necessary repairs and/or adjustments.
Step 5
: Install the replacement parts.
ASME B30.20 requires special markings for all repaired or modified lifters (pipe grab).
Consult the standard and affix/attach the necessary marking(s).
Step 6
: After the grab has been repaired, conduct a periodic inspection. The grab may be returned to
service ONLY IF the grab passes the inspection. Repeat steps 3-5 if the inspection reveals additional
issues.
Step 7
: Make a dated record of the repairs, adjustments and/or replacements made.
- 14 -
Markings:
Only use the pipe grab if ALL of the labels are readable and undamaged. Contact Vestil for replacement
labels.
FIG. 6: Product label placement
“Made in
USA”
label
“Made in
USA”
label
Manufacturer’s
Name label
Rated
Load
label
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